Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup
This comforting soup combines shredded chicken, rice, and fresh vegetables for a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Rotisserie chicken works well.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice Can swap for brown rice.
- 8 cups chicken broth Homemade or store-bought.
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 pieces carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- to taste salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
- splash of lemon juice Optional, for brightness.
- fresh spinach Optional, for added greens.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Carefully add the chicken broth to the pot, bringing everything to a gentle simmer.
- Toss in the rice, thyme, and parsley, followed by the shredded chicken. Stir well and cover. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and fluffy.
Finishing Touches
- Once the rice is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, ideally paired with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.
Notes
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or swap the chicken for chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian option. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can also enhance the soup's flavor.